International politics
South Korea joins 7 countries in Strait of Hormuz statement
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South Korea's foreign ministry announced Friday it will join a joint statement by seven countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands and Canada, condemning Iran's attacks in the Gulf and de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The statement calls on Iran to cease its actions and respect freedom of navigation. Seoul cited safety of sea lanes and impacts on its energy supply.
Divisions have emerged within the expanded BRICS group over the ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliations, as covered in earlier coverage of the conflict's outset. While Brazil, China, and Russia condemned the initial attacks, India, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE criticized Iran's responses. The escalation has triggered market volatility, reducing capital flows to emerging markets.
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NATO is launching operation Arctic Sentry to increase its engagement in the Arctic. Defense Minister Pål Jonson (M) states that Sweden is ready to contribute its capabilities. The operation initially focuses on coordinating existing exercises and surveillance in the region.